MSNBC Will Now Be Called MS NOW After Splitting Off from NBCUniversal.

MSNBC is officially changing its name as it moves away from NBCUniversal.

On Monday, Aug. 18, the channel announced that it will now be called My Source for News, Opinion and the World, or MS NOW.

The announcement came in a company-wide memo from Versant CEO Mark Lazarus, who said the new name “underscores the brand’s mission to serve as the destination for domestic and international breaking news and the best-in-class opinion journalism.”

Why the Change?

MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler explained that the move is part of separating from NBC and becoming fully independent.

“During this time of transition, NBCUniversal decided that our brand requires a new, separate identity,” Kutler said. “This decision now allows us to set our own course and assert our independence as we continue to build our own modern newsgathering operation.”

She added that while the name is changing, the network’s work and values will remain the same.

Building an Independent Future

To prepare for the split, the network has hired dozens of new journalists from outlets such as CNN, Bloomberg, Politico, and The Washington Post. It has also set up its first-ever Washington Bureau.

Other channels connected to NBCUniversal are also making changes. According to Lazarus’ memo, CNBC “will retain its name and is working on a new logo,” while sports programming on USA Network and Golf Channel will come together under a new brand called USA Sports.

Maddow Reacts to the Change

Rachel Maddow told Variety the name change makes sense:

“If there was ever a time for us to change our name, this is it — because we’re not just separating from NBC News in corporate terms, we’re competing with them now. So I think the distinction is going to be good for us.”

She added that NBC’s legacy programs like Today Show, Nightly News, and Meet the Press are very different from MS NOW’s independent 24/7 news operation.

Recent Changes at the Network

The rebrand comes after several shake-ups in MSNBC’s lineup.

• Andrea Mitchell ended her run as anchor in February after nearly 17 years, though she continues at NBC News as chief Washington and foreign affairs correspondent.
• Days later, Joy Reid also left, which Maddow called “very, very, very hard to take.”
• Steve Kornacki exited in April and signed a deal with NBCUniversal to expand his role across its broadcasts.

The channel says it remains committed to its audience as it begins this new chapter under MS NOW.